More on 34

Treasure hunt is June 19-20

PRINCETON — For the fourth year in a row, Bureau County residents can go on a treasure hunt along Route 34.

In two weeks, people will have the opportunity to travel Route 34, from Sandwich to Galesburg, and to shop, shop and shop some more during the More on 34 garage sale extravaganza, set for June 19-20.

Cathy Foes with the Henry County Tourism Board is the local contact person for people wanting to sell their goods during More on 34. For the first time, people can visit the moreon34.com Web site and sign up for the sale, all at no cost. The Web site also includes information on sponsors and vendors, a photo contest, lodging and coupon information.

Foes said More on 34 brings a lot of people into the communities along that stretch of highway. One former skeptic did not think More on 34 would bring many people to the community, but when he saw the traffic he decided to open for business selling antique furniture and ended up pocketing $1,000 for six hours of effort., Foes said.

"Galesburg to Sandwich translates to 143 miles of bargains of fresh produce, antiques, furniture and more," Foes said. "Thrifty shoppers will hit the road with patience, plenty of perseverance, a full tank of gas and cash in hand to experience the old adage 'one man’s junk is another man’s treasures.'" 

Four years ago, Foes herself was a vendor with More on 34. She knows firsthand of the benefits of the two-day outreach and sale. She had people from as far away as Iowa and Wisconsin at her booth.

Last year, an estimated 150 individuals and vendors sold items through More on 34. Bureau County communities participating along the Route 34 path are LaMoille, Dover, Princeton, Wyanet, Sheffield and Neponset.

To help promote More on 34, Foes said a $7,250 grant has been received from the Illinois Bureau of Tourism, which is a division of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. The grant money will allow sponsors to double their marketing outreach this year.

As long as the weather holds and gas prices cooperate, this year’s More on 34 should be bigger and better than ever before, Foes said.

For more information on the More on 34 event, vendor and advertisement information, visit www.moreon34.com or call (877) 436-7926.